The thing about music is that it has the power to move us.
My most favorite Christmas Carol has that power over me and nearly brings me to tears as well as my knees!
There are many many versions of it and I seem to love them all. Everyone has sung it at one time in their life, and for me, it never gets old!
Carol Of The Bells
Hark! how the bells
Sweet silver bells
All seem to say,
"Throw cares away."
Christmas is here
Bringing good cheer
To young and old
Meek and the bold
Ding, dong, ding, dong
That is their song
With joyful ring
All caroling
One seems to hear
Words of good cheer
From ev'rywhere
Filling the air
Oh how they pound,
Raising the sound,
O'er hill and dale,
Telling their tale,
Gaily they ring
While people sing
Songs of good cheer
Christmas is here
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas
Merry, merry, merry, merry Christmas
On, on they send
On without end
Their joyful tone
To ev'ry home
Ding, dong, ding, dong.
Composed by Mykola Dmytrovych Leontovych (1877-1921) in 1916. Originally titled Shchedryk, this Ukranian folk song is about a sparrow and the bountiful year that awaits a family. It was first performed in the Ukraine on the night of January 13, 1916, on the Julian calendar this is considered New Year's Eve. In the United States the song was first performed on October 5, 1921 at Carnegie Hall.
Carol of the Bells, also known as the Ukrainian Carol, was adapted from Shchedryk by Mykola Leontovych (1877-1921), which was first performed in December 1916 by students at Kiev University. The original Ukrainian song is based on an old Slavic legend that every bell in the world rang in honour of Jesus on the night of his birth.
Here is a Barlow Girls version: Consider this your Christmas Card! Love to all and have a joyous Christmas Season!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKt_cJfOZ7M&feature=related
Susieknits
Thursday, December 22, 2011
Monday, November 28, 2011
The Holidays are Coming , the Holidays are Coming!
My Holiday Wreath!
December is such a busy time for everyone! It's no wonder we get so stressed out with all the shopping, extra baking, school programs, special holiday events and the list goes on....AND we still have to go to work, have time to feed ourselves and sleep!
Black Friday kicked off the Holiday shopping for most of us. Yarn stores don't generally get included in BF shopping because the big ticket items everyone wants , like computers, televisions ect. are where the deals are! And who would really think that a yarn store would be a good place to buy a gift anyway? Well, your right! It's us who knit and crochet all year long, stitching up items to give to all those who don't knit or crochet mostly! We find great joy in creating things to give as gifts, and it just makes sense that we would love to get yarn for Christmas! It really wouldn't even matter what kind it was or how much.....half the fun is deciding what to make with it!
So, this is what I am going to do...
30% off everything in iYarn, December 8-10th !!
Also, everything in the sale bin will be $2 (marked with a yellow sale sticker).
Durring this sale, current iYarn coupons or punch cards will not be accepted.
And don't forget, I have Gift Certificates!
December 9th is the Winfield's Downtown Christmas Light Parade! Winfields first ever as far as I know! I hope we do this every year!
I also want to remind everyone, next time you get on facebook, that Mulberry Creek will soon be deleted! I hate it that we have been collecting friends all this time and I hope we don't lose anyone in the process. A new page will be made for Mulberry Creek and you will then need to go like the page so that you can continue to get the newsfeeds for that store.
iYarn already has a page to go like...we will be posting this on the current MC site alot this week so no one misses it! there will also be links to the new pages, so you won't have to hit the search button!
Knit Happy Club members:
It's Hat month! Wear a hat that you have made (or made by someone else)!
Bring some spare yarn with it's recomended needle size to Club December 29th. If you don't have any spare yarn, I will have some handy, just so ya know! Wheeee!!!Giggle,laughoutloud,cough,snort,giggle!! This is so much FUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In January, I would like to start a Knit-A-Long. Years ago, I joined one and it pushed me to learn new things and it was so much fun! Kick that idea around in your head and I would LOVE some feedback!
And in the midst of all your holiday hussle and bustle, don't forget to make time for yarn...it is after all, your therapy!
susan
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Quandary
It’s my day off, but is it really?
Always, always, thinking about iYarn and plotting my next move. Did I say move ?
My husband and I can be watching a movie…he is heavily focused on the plot. I say, “I think I will call the land lady and see if it would be okay if I put a table on the other side of building to accommodate my knitting class”.
He looks at me, with his eyes he is telling me, is that all you think about ? “So”, I say, could you bring our white folding table to shop for me before Saturday”? He mumbled something …”is that a yes or a no”?
I go back to my knitting, he continues to watch the movie. Several minutes go by, I’m not sure how many, I say, “ We don’t have enough chairs….where am I going to get more chairs”? No answer from husband who wishes I would shut up and let him watch the movie. So….. I did shut up, but my brain didn‘t.
I guess that’s why I blog. My blog listens to me, or is that just me listening to me? I am thinking I will change my alter ego name to Sybil. I have a host of people in my head telling me what to do, and I listen to them!
I scheduled a sock class some months back, which is all fine and good. Then a wool stitch class was scheduled. This class happens to have 12 people in it, which is wonderful. BUT, the second wool class is on the same day as the first day of my 3 day sock class, which I have 8 people enrolled. Now, with the regular knitters that come in on Saturday, THAT’S A HOUSE FULL! So where am I going to have the sock class? Okay, bring in another table, but where will I put said table and where will I get more chairs?
So, the problem is , we are out of room. Iyarn and Mulberry Creek have outgrown one another. Agree, this is the first time we have had this problem, but , we are still out of space! Who knew this would happen? But I think it is wonderful that so many people have walked through our doors and became friends and regular customers. It is nice to know that we are needed (?) in the community. I not only want our customers to be able to browse some wonderful yarns and notions, but to be comfortable while doing it in more space , room to move around and a place to sit and unwind from their work week.
I knew this day would come, and that is also another reason I am scrambling for my own identity as a yarn shop.
We have talked to the landlady and told her when she got the other rental space ready, we would be interested in renting it. We don’t know when this will be, but I hope it is soon!
I still have to solve the problem of Saturdays class and it is up to me to come up with a solution. Perhaps I need to talk this one out with a real person. It is taking me awhile, but I am learning to talk things out with real people instead of keeping it all to myself. I am hoping eventually, it will lead to my healing.
OMN: Besides the projects I have already started and working on last week, I started another one! It's a tunic , knit in mitered squares with Weekend yarn by Berroco!
I knit a pair of toe up socks for my youngest grandson with some stash yarn, and started another set for oldest grandson with Supersocke 100 by OnLive! I love that yarn!
Knit On!
Susieknits
Always, always, thinking about iYarn and plotting my next move. Did I say move ?
My husband and I can be watching a movie…he is heavily focused on the plot. I say, “I think I will call the land lady and see if it would be okay if I put a table on the other side of building to accommodate my knitting class”.
He looks at me, with his eyes he is telling me, is that all you think about ? “So”, I say, could you bring our white folding table to shop for me before Saturday”? He mumbled something …”is that a yes or a no”?
I go back to my knitting, he continues to watch the movie. Several minutes go by, I’m not sure how many, I say, “ We don’t have enough chairs….where am I going to get more chairs”? No answer from husband who wishes I would shut up and let him watch the movie. So….. I did shut up, but my brain didn‘t.
I guess that’s why I blog. My blog listens to me, or is that just me listening to me? I am thinking I will change my alter ego name to Sybil. I have a host of people in my head telling me what to do, and I listen to them!
I scheduled a sock class some months back, which is all fine and good. Then a wool stitch class was scheduled. This class happens to have 12 people in it, which is wonderful. BUT, the second wool class is on the same day as the first day of my 3 day sock class, which I have 8 people enrolled. Now, with the regular knitters that come in on Saturday, THAT’S A HOUSE FULL! So where am I going to have the sock class? Okay, bring in another table, but where will I put said table and where will I get more chairs?
So, the problem is , we are out of room. Iyarn and Mulberry Creek have outgrown one another. Agree, this is the first time we have had this problem, but , we are still out of space! Who knew this would happen? But I think it is wonderful that so many people have walked through our doors and became friends and regular customers. It is nice to know that we are needed (?) in the community. I not only want our customers to be able to browse some wonderful yarns and notions, but to be comfortable while doing it in more space , room to move around and a place to sit and unwind from their work week.
I knew this day would come, and that is also another reason I am scrambling for my own identity as a yarn shop.
We have talked to the landlady and told her when she got the other rental space ready, we would be interested in renting it. We don’t know when this will be, but I hope it is soon!
I still have to solve the problem of Saturdays class and it is up to me to come up with a solution. Perhaps I need to talk this one out with a real person. It is taking me awhile, but I am learning to talk things out with real people instead of keeping it all to myself. I am hoping eventually, it will lead to my healing.
OMN: Besides the projects I have already started and working on last week, I started another one! It's a tunic , knit in mitered squares with Weekend yarn by Berroco!
I knit a pair of toe up socks for my youngest grandson with some stash yarn, and started another set for oldest grandson with Supersocke 100 by OnLive! I love that yarn!
Knit On!
Susieknits
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Warm Fuzzy Thoughts
I am happy to announce that I am now cold. After that long summer of heat, I embrace the cooler temps and my knitting has a whole new meaning...I want me and my family to be warm this winter!
What I like to do when I am cold:
Wrap up in my red snuggely blanket on the sofa with my microwavable rice bag, with my cockapoo Sebastian at my side (or at my feet).
Put on my flannel pants and find my knitted felt clogs! They are so warm!
Read knitting magazines and books.
Plan my knitting projects.
Sip hot tea or coffee.
Knit (that's a no brainer).
Watch a good movie.
Make soup.
Day Dreams of a Tropical Vacation.
Looks online for a knitting cruise in January or February...
It is common for us to complain about extreme temps, whether it's to hot or to cold, but if we didn't have the seasons, it would be a bit boreing! Agree?
And if it never got cold, we wouldn't have a use for all our socks, scarves, mittens ect, that we sit around and knit all year long! That is also a good reason to keep knitting even when it is hot outside, so we have those warm things when it does get cold! That is why I can't figure out why peeps don't knit or crochet when it's hot, they wait until it gets cold to think about picking up their sticks to make something warm!
We had a good turn out for the first Knit Happy Club in October! We ate soup, talked, knitted, and started a project together, and I think we all had a good time. I have signed another willing member recently and will be joining us November 17th when we have our second meeting! I think that brings us to a total of 12 now!
Also in November:
Nov. 19: Toe Up Sock Class
Nov. 20: Holiday Open House, Sunday 1-5
Nov. 23: Close at 2:00 so that we may travel and start preparing for Thanksgiving with our families!
Nov. 24: Closed for Thanksgiving
Back to the subject of knitting...
I found some wonderful information on gauge:
http://www.earthguild.com/products/knitcroc/marypat/gauge.htm
We know what it is and what it does, and what its for, but do we know how to use it?
This is also what I do on my day off....the shop brain, never has a day off!
This is what I am thinking...to organize a day of teaching others to knit or crochet. For free. Like we did at a friends house earlier this year. I have plenty of donated yarn, but we need more size 7 or 8 knitting needles and crochet hooks. So, if you see any at a yard sale or have some extra needles laying around, would you consider donating them to the cause? There are more peeps out there who think they are unteachable or want to learn but don't have the funds to purchase a set of needles and some yarn, so I think I was put on this earth to do somthing about that! It could be like a big Knit In, or Yarn Out .....
OMN: I started the shawl project provided by the knit happy peeps for club members only.
I finally bought myself the book by E. Zimmerman to make the adult version of the Surprise Jacket, Im still figuring that one out.
I am also working on squares for a Jacket in the Block by Block book by Niki Epstien. I am working on the tree square. I am now sold out of this book but have more ordered if you are interested!
Finished: 2 sets of the leaf fingerless mittens. Pattern found at Ravelry.com
Another Pair of Toe Up socks in Comfort Worsted.
I need to stop thinking about yarn and go clean my house.....
Happy Knitting!
s
What I like to do when I am cold:
Wrap up in my red snuggely blanket on the sofa with my microwavable rice bag, with my cockapoo Sebastian at my side (or at my feet).
Put on my flannel pants and find my knitted felt clogs! They are so warm!
Read knitting magazines and books.
Plan my knitting projects.
Sip hot tea or coffee.
Knit (that's a no brainer).
Watch a good movie.
Make soup.
Day Dreams of a Tropical Vacation.
Looks online for a knitting cruise in January or February...
It is common for us to complain about extreme temps, whether it's to hot or to cold, but if we didn't have the seasons, it would be a bit boreing! Agree?
And if it never got cold, we wouldn't have a use for all our socks, scarves, mittens ect, that we sit around and knit all year long! That is also a good reason to keep knitting even when it is hot outside, so we have those warm things when it does get cold! That is why I can't figure out why peeps don't knit or crochet when it's hot, they wait until it gets cold to think about picking up their sticks to make something warm!
We had a good turn out for the first Knit Happy Club in October! We ate soup, talked, knitted, and started a project together, and I think we all had a good time. I have signed another willing member recently and will be joining us November 17th when we have our second meeting! I think that brings us to a total of 12 now!
Also in November:
Nov. 19: Toe Up Sock Class
Nov. 20: Holiday Open House, Sunday 1-5
Nov. 23: Close at 2:00 so that we may travel and start preparing for Thanksgiving with our families!
Nov. 24: Closed for Thanksgiving
Back to the subject of knitting...
I found some wonderful information on gauge:
http://www.earthguild.com/products/knitcroc/marypat/gauge.htm
We know what it is and what it does, and what its for, but do we know how to use it?
This is also what I do on my day off....the shop brain, never has a day off!
This is what I am thinking...to organize a day of teaching others to knit or crochet. For free. Like we did at a friends house earlier this year. I have plenty of donated yarn, but we need more size 7 or 8 knitting needles and crochet hooks. So, if you see any at a yard sale or have some extra needles laying around, would you consider donating them to the cause? There are more peeps out there who think they are unteachable or want to learn but don't have the funds to purchase a set of needles and some yarn, so I think I was put on this earth to do somthing about that! It could be like a big Knit In, or Yarn Out .....
OMN: I started the shawl project provided by the knit happy peeps for club members only.
I finally bought myself the book by E. Zimmerman to make the adult version of the Surprise Jacket, Im still figuring that one out.
I am also working on squares for a Jacket in the Block by Block book by Niki Epstien. I am working on the tree square. I am now sold out of this book but have more ordered if you are interested!
Finished: 2 sets of the leaf fingerless mittens. Pattern found at Ravelry.com
Another Pair of Toe Up socks in Comfort Worsted.
I need to stop thinking about yarn and go clean my house.....
Happy Knitting!
s
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Whoooaa! What was that????
Wait, I think that was October!!!!
Seems like a blur now, but as soon as the calender flipped to October, all L broke loose!
We had a booth at the Fall Into the Holidaze Show to promote classes and create awareness and advertise our Open House.
Our Ribbon Cutting and Open House happened the week after that and our sign on our windows hadn't appeared yet, but when he learned our Ribbon Cutting was about to take place, he got on the ball and 10 minutes before the Chamber showed up for the ceremony, he was placing the last bit to the window!! Our famous Kansas winds were blowing that day, but I was determined that we were taking our picture outside in front of those windows to show them off! I don't think you could see the window in the pic, but , oh well.....
Then, on the following Saturday, was our Open House , with demonstrations, class sign ups and refreshments .... We also had drawings for Quilt shop coupons and 31 bags stuffed with knitting goodies and Knitting Kits! My daughter Beth and Grandgirl Madi were present for knitting group and that is always a special treat for me!
I had a couple of weeks to recover from that when I found out my brother and his wife were going to visit....right as the Yarn shop hop was to take place. It was awesome to see him, but couldn't take much time off. I was bumbed about that, but did get a few days to spend with them.
This years Yarn shop hop included the Wicked Stitch in Wamego, Wildflower Knits in Manhattan, The Shivering Sheep in Abeline, Yarns Sold and Told in Salina, Laura May's Cottage in Lindsborg, Oh Yarn It! in McPhearson, yarn in Hutchenson, Sugar Bunny Blvd. in El Dorado, 3 shops in Wichita, Twist, Odd Balls and Heritage Hut and then of course iYarn in Winfield!
We handed out mini skeins of yarn for this years project, which was a market bag designed by the Manhattan shop owner. I handed out 175 skeins durring the 4 day hop!
I also hear that the Wicked Stitch boast of having the largest scrap yarn ball....in Kansas? in the US? The world? ever? I am going to have to measure my ball and ask them to do the same!! haha
Anyway, it was all good....I'm not sure Trish will survive, but I am getting some rest and recovering nicely, thank you!
This Thursday night our knit happy club starts! It will be held the last Thursday of every month, lasting for 6 months, and one of our members is bringing soup to share! yummy!! The weather is about to turn chilly so I can't think of a more perfect way to start the club! The knit happy peeps, designed the club so no one has to do any planning and provided us with a pattern, a fall recipe to try, and even a lessen on gauge! (a little hint for my one reader) lol (you know who you are)....so we are looking forward to sharing projects, maybe learning something we didn't know and some laughs, Im sure!
Halloween is next Monday and then...... October will be gone!
November 17th, Basic Sock Class on circular needles ...these are done with larger needles and Comfort Worsted weight yarn.....they will be quick to knit up so you can knit everyone socks for Christmas!!
Got any other quick knits for gift giving? I would love to hear some ideas!
Happy Knitting!
susieknits at iYarn!
Wait, I think that was October!!!!
Seems like a blur now, but as soon as the calender flipped to October, all L broke loose!
We had a booth at the Fall Into the Holidaze Show to promote classes and create awareness and advertise our Open House.
Our Ribbon Cutting and Open House happened the week after that and our sign on our windows hadn't appeared yet, but when he learned our Ribbon Cutting was about to take place, he got on the ball and 10 minutes before the Chamber showed up for the ceremony, he was placing the last bit to the window!! Our famous Kansas winds were blowing that day, but I was determined that we were taking our picture outside in front of those windows to show them off! I don't think you could see the window in the pic, but , oh well.....
Then, on the following Saturday, was our Open House , with demonstrations, class sign ups and refreshments .... We also had drawings for Quilt shop coupons and 31 bags stuffed with knitting goodies and Knitting Kits! My daughter Beth and Grandgirl Madi were present for knitting group and that is always a special treat for me!
I had a couple of weeks to recover from that when I found out my brother and his wife were going to visit....right as the Yarn shop hop was to take place. It was awesome to see him, but couldn't take much time off. I was bumbed about that, but did get a few days to spend with them.
This years Yarn shop hop included the Wicked Stitch in Wamego, Wildflower Knits in Manhattan, The Shivering Sheep in Abeline, Yarns Sold and Told in Salina, Laura May's Cottage in Lindsborg, Oh Yarn It! in McPhearson, yarn in Hutchenson, Sugar Bunny Blvd. in El Dorado, 3 shops in Wichita, Twist, Odd Balls and Heritage Hut and then of course iYarn in Winfield!
We handed out mini skeins of yarn for this years project, which was a market bag designed by the Manhattan shop owner. I handed out 175 skeins durring the 4 day hop!
I also hear that the Wicked Stitch boast of having the largest scrap yarn ball....in Kansas? in the US? The world? ever? I am going to have to measure my ball and ask them to do the same!! haha
Anyway, it was all good....I'm not sure Trish will survive, but I am getting some rest and recovering nicely, thank you!
This Thursday night our knit happy club starts! It will be held the last Thursday of every month, lasting for 6 months, and one of our members is bringing soup to share! yummy!! The weather is about to turn chilly so I can't think of a more perfect way to start the club! The knit happy peeps, designed the club so no one has to do any planning and provided us with a pattern, a fall recipe to try, and even a lessen on gauge! (a little hint for my one reader) lol (you know who you are)....so we are looking forward to sharing projects, maybe learning something we didn't know and some laughs, Im sure!
Halloween is next Monday and then...... October will be gone!
November 17th, Basic Sock Class on circular needles ...these are done with larger needles and Comfort Worsted weight yarn.....they will be quick to knit up so you can knit everyone socks for Christmas!!
Got any other quick knits for gift giving? I would love to hear some ideas!
Happy Knitting!
susieknits at iYarn!
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
I think I would blog more if I could do it from my smartphone. I would definately post more pictures!
This week we started our new 7 day a week hours! I feel kinda bad though, Monday was a holiday and yesterday I was gone for a funeral, but today I worked and it was also Trish's day off...I did see her for a bit, because she was in town, so she stopped in just in time to recieve an order from Store Supply. We got a few things to add to our displays. I am freaking out, with the Euro yarn order. A rather large order I might add!! Now I am afraid it will arrive while I am at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival! But it's my vacation, so, I guess it will have to sit in boxes until I get back. It will kill Trish not to open them and see what is inside! lol, but I bet she does!
I am off on Thursday now, and it also happens to be landrush day for the festival....Im excited! I will be in the shop Friday and then Saturday is the Bluegrass Blowout Sidewalk Sale. Sunday I will work and will have our very first Charity Stitches! Then......I will be off for an entire week, tapping my foot and clicking my needles at various stages, mostly stage 4, where the championships are held,my favorite.
So many exciting events ahead! Stay tuned!
See you afta the Fest!
Susie
This week we started our new 7 day a week hours! I feel kinda bad though, Monday was a holiday and yesterday I was gone for a funeral, but today I worked and it was also Trish's day off...I did see her for a bit, because she was in town, so she stopped in just in time to recieve an order from Store Supply. We got a few things to add to our displays. I am freaking out, with the Euro yarn order. A rather large order I might add!! Now I am afraid it will arrive while I am at the Walnut Valley Bluegrass Festival! But it's my vacation, so, I guess it will have to sit in boxes until I get back. It will kill Trish not to open them and see what is inside! lol, but I bet she does!
I am off on Thursday now, and it also happens to be landrush day for the festival....Im excited! I will be in the shop Friday and then Saturday is the Bluegrass Blowout Sidewalk Sale. Sunday I will work and will have our very first Charity Stitches! Then......I will be off for an entire week, tapping my foot and clicking my needles at various stages, mostly stage 4, where the championships are held,my favorite.
So many exciting events ahead! Stay tuned!
See you afta the Fest!
Susie
Sunday, September 4, 2011
The Ber Months
It is Sunday night....oops, no, it is very early Monday morning and I am sitting in my chair feeling a bit overwhelmed thinking about the week or even a month or so in front of me. But one day at a time, okay, maybe a week. I only have to survive this week.
Life sure throws you curve balls sometimes, but I feel like I am in the middle of a peewee baseball tournement with pitchers that havn't learned the skill yet!
I am preparing my house for company! My house will soon be filled with family members as they arrive for the funeral of my brother-in-law. He was killed probably instantly as he approached a blind curve, while driving a water tank at 4:30 a.m. on Friday morning. A new job he had only had for 1 week. He was 57 yrs old. Apparently , as he realized the curve and tried to make it the water in the tanks shifted and caused the truck to overturn and role.
He was married to my sister(she went to heaven in 2001) and we were all very close...our husbands were childhood friends , so needless to say, we were all very close! Seems like every time we had a baby, they would have one right behind us, so our kids were all very close in ages, so at family get to gethers , they would all pair off to go play. It was nice!
I love my sisters kids as much as my own, so it's very difficult to see them lose both their parents so tragically! His service will be in Winfield on Tuesday morning.
Wednesday, I will work , but so much to do! Preparing for a week off and getting ready for the Sidewalk Sale on Saturday. That evening , my daughter and I will spend the night in the camper so we will there bright and early for the landrush. I am not a morning person....neither is she....just seems to make sense, but not sure how to do it without coffee, as we won't have electicity yet.
Thursday is Land Rush for the Walnut Valley Festival and we are 204th in line! When the camper is secure in its location, hopefully our usual spot, I will clean up and go back to work...lol, maybe.
This will also be the first week I will be open on Sunday, from 1-5....then, I will be off for a week to attend the festival! Personally, I could use some down time and I am looking forward to it. I hope to meet up with all the festival knitters who usually gather on stage 4 or in campgrounds for some Knit Pickin' time....and I just remembered I have not purchased our tickets yet......that's on Tusday's list, I think. Tuesday or Wed. is the last day you can get advanced prices.....
Havn't had to much knitting time this weekend, I started another project with the size 35 needles I bought to go with the new Link Yarn in the shop. It will go really fast with the chunky yarn I am using to make a shrug.
Yawn......
I am rambling...I think it's time for some bed time!
Life sure throws you curve balls sometimes, but I feel like I am in the middle of a peewee baseball tournement with pitchers that havn't learned the skill yet!
I am preparing my house for company! My house will soon be filled with family members as they arrive for the funeral of my brother-in-law. He was killed probably instantly as he approached a blind curve, while driving a water tank at 4:30 a.m. on Friday morning. A new job he had only had for 1 week. He was 57 yrs old. Apparently , as he realized the curve and tried to make it the water in the tanks shifted and caused the truck to overturn and role.
He was married to my sister(she went to heaven in 2001) and we were all very close...our husbands were childhood friends , so needless to say, we were all very close! Seems like every time we had a baby, they would have one right behind us, so our kids were all very close in ages, so at family get to gethers , they would all pair off to go play. It was nice!
I love my sisters kids as much as my own, so it's very difficult to see them lose both their parents so tragically! His service will be in Winfield on Tuesday morning.
Wednesday, I will work , but so much to do! Preparing for a week off and getting ready for the Sidewalk Sale on Saturday. That evening , my daughter and I will spend the night in the camper so we will there bright and early for the landrush. I am not a morning person....neither is she....just seems to make sense, but not sure how to do it without coffee, as we won't have electicity yet.
Thursday is Land Rush for the Walnut Valley Festival and we are 204th in line! When the camper is secure in its location, hopefully our usual spot, I will clean up and go back to work...lol, maybe.
This will also be the first week I will be open on Sunday, from 1-5....then, I will be off for a week to attend the festival! Personally, I could use some down time and I am looking forward to it. I hope to meet up with all the festival knitters who usually gather on stage 4 or in campgrounds for some Knit Pickin' time....and I just remembered I have not purchased our tickets yet......that's on Tusday's list, I think. Tuesday or Wed. is the last day you can get advanced prices.....
Havn't had to much knitting time this weekend, I started another project with the size 35 needles I bought to go with the new Link Yarn in the shop. It will go really fast with the chunky yarn I am using to make a shrug.
Yawn......
I am rambling...I think it's time for some bed time!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Bring it ON!
Just try to imagine with me the cooler temps, the rain, the cool autumn breezes. Leaves falling and how the wind blows them around in swirls and the sound of dry leaves underfoot as you walk down the street!
Needing your jacket for the first time after several long hot months is a favorite memory as well and thinking about what projects I might need to knit up for the long winter ahead for friends and family and myself!
As the new fall yarns start to trickle in, I start to think of these things. My first project was Link, a new yarn from Berroco. It requires a size 35 needle, which I now carry in the shop. It was so fun to knit that first scarf and I would say it took maybe an hour to knit? There is a scarf pattern included on the label of Link, but Berroco put out a cowl and a hat pattern on their website at www.berroco.com. You can also sign up for Free Patterns, with a pattern in your inbox every Friday!
I was at my daughters this weekend and couldn't wait to show off the scarf...looking at my size 35's , she asked to use them while I was there and she used worsted weight yarn to knit a scarf, with 2 strands held together, and then I taught her how to do the 3 needle bind off to hook the two ends together, making it sort of a cowl, so she could wrap it around her neck twice. It was completed in several hours. Her sister was so jealous, she used the rest of the yarn to knit herself one too! She knit her scarf in one sitting, while we were sitting outside watching the kids play in the homemade water slide!
My husband makes fun of me for having a one track mind. I am always thinking about the yarn shop. I'm not sure I know how to talk about anything else... I found a shelving unit that stacks in graduated sizes, at a yard sale, while we were out of town. Perfect for yarn and the shop! I also went to an antique store and looked for ways to display handmade items, not to much luck there. But I am always looking! I am expecting a big shipment of new yarns Sept. 1 and I have to be ready!!
We have been at 601 Main, Winfield, KS for 1 month now! Still waiting for a sign, but looking for ways to advertise the store in the way of yarn bombing objects located in the front of the store. A post for one and most recently the street sign. I am having way to much fun! I am hopeing yarn bombing will catch on and our town will be decorated with lovely yarns to promote the love of it!
So bring on the new fall yarns and the weather that soon follow! I am ready!!
Needing your jacket for the first time after several long hot months is a favorite memory as well and thinking about what projects I might need to knit up for the long winter ahead for friends and family and myself!
As the new fall yarns start to trickle in, I start to think of these things. My first project was Link, a new yarn from Berroco. It requires a size 35 needle, which I now carry in the shop. It was so fun to knit that first scarf and I would say it took maybe an hour to knit? There is a scarf pattern included on the label of Link, but Berroco put out a cowl and a hat pattern on their website at www.berroco.com. You can also sign up for Free Patterns, with a pattern in your inbox every Friday!
I was at my daughters this weekend and couldn't wait to show off the scarf...looking at my size 35's , she asked to use them while I was there and she used worsted weight yarn to knit a scarf, with 2 strands held together, and then I taught her how to do the 3 needle bind off to hook the two ends together, making it sort of a cowl, so she could wrap it around her neck twice. It was completed in several hours. Her sister was so jealous, she used the rest of the yarn to knit herself one too! She knit her scarf in one sitting, while we were sitting outside watching the kids play in the homemade water slide!
My husband makes fun of me for having a one track mind. I am always thinking about the yarn shop. I'm not sure I know how to talk about anything else... I found a shelving unit that stacks in graduated sizes, at a yard sale, while we were out of town. Perfect for yarn and the shop! I also went to an antique store and looked for ways to display handmade items, not to much luck there. But I am always looking! I am expecting a big shipment of new yarns Sept. 1 and I have to be ready!!
We have been at 601 Main, Winfield, KS for 1 month now! Still waiting for a sign, but looking for ways to advertise the store in the way of yarn bombing objects located in the front of the store. A post for one and most recently the street sign. I am having way to much fun! I am hopeing yarn bombing will catch on and our town will be decorated with lovely yarns to promote the love of it!
So bring on the new fall yarns and the weather that soon follow! I am ready!!
Sunday, August 7, 2011
I'm happy to report we made it through the first week at 601 Main! We certainly more busy than I thought we would be and even several first timers in the shop as well!
The tempurature outside still isn't where I would like it to be and we are figuring out ways to keep it cool inside as the air conditioner still isn't keeping up. And maybe because it's just so darn hot!
Our sign person hasn't appeared with our new signage yet, but using our old metal sign from east 9th, it will work until we get the real thing. The windows are darkly tinted, so can't really put anything in the window that says yarn or quilt....my hubby is making me a sidewalk sign out of two write and wipe boards to put on the sidewalk too, so that will help.
It's still amazing too, the people that are walking through the front door looking for a liquer store. Saturday was our first Knit Day since the move and one of our knit friends brought in some of her stash in 2 6 packs! What a hoot!
Amost forgot, the results of the fair knitting and I forgot to take pics of everything....I'll do that next week. Displayed at the shop and I blog at home.....when Im not so distracted! lol
Now that the fair is over, I can turn my thoughts toward the shop hop and it will be here before I know it! New products should start arriving in the store any time now! The fun part will be trying to figure out where to put it all!
Besides some fun new yarns, due to arrive soon is a lotion bar called Lavishea, in Citris Basil, Cucumber Melon , Lavender and one called the Yarn Bar. I tried these lotion bars a few years back and I absolutely loved them and I think you will too! They make a great addition to a gift or great for traveling and keeping in your purse or knitting bag!
One more thing before I go, I wanted to share my first yarn bomb at the new place. There is an ugly leaning iron post our front in the street that was screaming for a knitted koozy thingy...more are planned, but I might need some help! We have a light post, street sign and a fire hydrant!
The tempurature outside still isn't where I would like it to be and we are figuring out ways to keep it cool inside as the air conditioner still isn't keeping up. And maybe because it's just so darn hot!
Our sign person hasn't appeared with our new signage yet, but using our old metal sign from east 9th, it will work until we get the real thing. The windows are darkly tinted, so can't really put anything in the window that says yarn or quilt....my hubby is making me a sidewalk sign out of two write and wipe boards to put on the sidewalk too, so that will help.
iYarn is INTOXICATING!
Amost forgot, the results of the fair knitting and I forgot to take pics of everything....I'll do that next week. Displayed at the shop and I blog at home.....when Im not so distracted! lol
Now that the fair is over, I can turn my thoughts toward the shop hop and it will be here before I know it! New products should start arriving in the store any time now! The fun part will be trying to figure out where to put it all!
Besides some fun new yarns, due to arrive soon is a lotion bar called Lavishea, in Citris Basil, Cucumber Melon , Lavender and one called the Yarn Bar. I tried these lotion bars a few years back and I absolutely loved them and I think you will too! They make a great addition to a gift or great for traveling and keeping in your purse or knitting bag!
One more thing before I go, I wanted to share my first yarn bomb at the new place. There is an ugly leaning iron post our front in the street that was screaming for a knitted koozy thingy...more are planned, but I might need some help! We have a light post, street sign and a fire hydrant!
Say what you must, but I think it's adorable! I just hope I don't get arrested!
I only type to give my hands a break from knitting. I started 2 new projects. One is a shrug and I am using AslanTrends chunky yarn and a cowl using a new color, (in the shop soon), which is a soft shade of lime in the Lustra yarn, which I was itching to knit something for the shop. It is so soft and shiny and will will make the leaf pattern I am using look awesome!
My knitting misses me....later!!
Thursday, July 21, 2011
All I can say anymore is " I'm Hot"!
After about 2 months of waiting to move, last Friday, the landlady brought by the key to the new place. Wanting to get the utilities on before the weekend, I ran to the Winfield City Office. I was told if I made it by 5 p.m. before they closed, utilities could be turned on the next day! So, I did that! Trish went missing and I needed her signature, but seeing my stress, they agreed to order the turn on, but she needed to be there at opening on Friday.
Friday morning While Trish was signing the paper, I was meeting with the city dude to inspect...the beloved electricity went on, and I headed for the thermostat to see if the air conditioning worked. I heard the fan kick on and I thought we were in busines! I knew it was going to take a day or two to cool down...it was 98 degrees in there!
That evening, my cousins from western Kansas came to help with the move. After dinner, we decided to move a few loads, and the new place was still pretty steamy, my hubby decides the compressor isn't working...I left a messege with to landlady...
One load, turned into 6 loads and pretty much got the yarn stuff moved. Saturday, the yarnies came in for group and we started packing up quilt stuff and started moving.
Once again, I try to contact the landlady.
God Bless the Stitch Group! The ladies kicked it in high gear as they packed up Trish and my wall of notions that I hand't gotten to yet, and had an old fasion fabric brigade going out the door as we loaded it unto an suv and several other cars and moved it over. I am really impressed how fast it got done! Way to go ladies! I love ya!! I know how hot it was and you all suffered terribly, I was sure we almost killed a couple of you....but you answered the call and out did yourselves on this one!!
Later that evening, or was the next day? Trish got ahold of her and she told us to get someone to fix our air, and our good friend and neighber mr. Godfrey, came to our rescue! The air is working but things still aren't quite right and is still being resolved....(trying to make a long story short)!
Needles to say, it is still hot in there, but we are still working on putting things away , the temps are very slowly dropping, and I shutter to think what the utility bill will be like!
Trying to stay positive and praying for cooler temps, I have been working at night, when the sun isn't bearing in throught the windows, makes it a little more bearable. I get really irrattable when I'm hot, so sorry to anyone I might have snapped at! I work better alone anyway....night shift, is working out for me! lol
Now, for the problem at hand. I am officially out of shelves for the new yarn comeing in late August and September...what to do, what to do! But today, I am staying in the coolness of my own home and going to make signs until we get our sign guy to get our windows done...I hope that can happen before August 2, opening day!
Everybody got their Fair projects done? I think I ended up with 10, that is, if I get my baby afghan done!! Carpul Tunnel slows me down, but it doesn't defeat me! Can't wait to find out how many entries we will have in the yarn department! If anything, maybe our projects will be seen by non stitchers and see what cool things you can do with yarn, and want to learn.
Stay Cool!
Susie Knits
After about 2 months of waiting to move, last Friday, the landlady brought by the key to the new place. Wanting to get the utilities on before the weekend, I ran to the Winfield City Office. I was told if I made it by 5 p.m. before they closed, utilities could be turned on the next day! So, I did that! Trish went missing and I needed her signature, but seeing my stress, they agreed to order the turn on, but she needed to be there at opening on Friday.
Friday morning While Trish was signing the paper, I was meeting with the city dude to inspect...the beloved electricity went on, and I headed for the thermostat to see if the air conditioning worked. I heard the fan kick on and I thought we were in busines! I knew it was going to take a day or two to cool down...it was 98 degrees in there!
That evening, my cousins from western Kansas came to help with the move. After dinner, we decided to move a few loads, and the new place was still pretty steamy, my hubby decides the compressor isn't working...I left a messege with to landlady...
One load, turned into 6 loads and pretty much got the yarn stuff moved. Saturday, the yarnies came in for group and we started packing up quilt stuff and started moving.
Once again, I try to contact the landlady.
God Bless the Stitch Group! The ladies kicked it in high gear as they packed up Trish and my wall of notions that I hand't gotten to yet, and had an old fasion fabric brigade going out the door as we loaded it unto an suv and several other cars and moved it over. I am really impressed how fast it got done! Way to go ladies! I love ya!! I know how hot it was and you all suffered terribly, I was sure we almost killed a couple of you....but you answered the call and out did yourselves on this one!!
Later that evening, or was the next day? Trish got ahold of her and she told us to get someone to fix our air, and our good friend and neighber mr. Godfrey, came to our rescue! The air is working but things still aren't quite right and is still being resolved....(trying to make a long story short)!
Needles to say, it is still hot in there, but we are still working on putting things away , the temps are very slowly dropping, and I shutter to think what the utility bill will be like!
Trying to stay positive and praying for cooler temps, I have been working at night, when the sun isn't bearing in throught the windows, makes it a little more bearable. I get really irrattable when I'm hot, so sorry to anyone I might have snapped at! I work better alone anyway....night shift, is working out for me! lol
Now, for the problem at hand. I am officially out of shelves for the new yarn comeing in late August and September...what to do, what to do! But today, I am staying in the coolness of my own home and going to make signs until we get our sign guy to get our windows done...I hope that can happen before August 2, opening day!
Everybody got their Fair projects done? I think I ended up with 10, that is, if I get my baby afghan done!! Carpul Tunnel slows me down, but it doesn't defeat me! Can't wait to find out how many entries we will have in the yarn department! If anything, maybe our projects will be seen by non stitchers and see what cool things you can do with yarn, and want to learn.
Stay Cool!
Susie Knits
Monday, July 11, 2011
Hello! Today is Monday and I am sitting here making my TO DO list for moving! In 5 days, we will start the move!! I guess it won't seem real until I lay exhausted in my bed to tired to move another inch! But I am more than ready for it! The only thing I am not ready for is moving in this heat! Can you believe the tempuratures? 113 yesterday and it doesn't look like it's going to let up for awhile.
I guess that's why we decided to move when the sun goes down, Saturday Evening. Any one who wants to help move with a load or two is welcome and will post on the Mulberry Creek Facebook page.
I have already started packing and throwing things out and giving things away that have been stored for so long in the back room. We won't have near the storage we have now.
There are also 5 days left for the yarn and fabric sale! 20% off regularly priced yarn , so get it while it's hot! (no pun intended).
I finished my socks I was working on for the fair! I had been knitting so much my hands are cramped and my left hand is in a brace....that slowed me down a bit, but I got the job done....and ready for a break from knitting. Let's see if I can NOT knit for awhile! hmmmm
Blocking the rest of my fair projects today and doing some housework and the dog is at the groomers. I am just trying to stay cool!
Enjoy your week!
SusieKnits
I guess that's why we decided to move when the sun goes down, Saturday Evening. Any one who wants to help move with a load or two is welcome and will post on the Mulberry Creek Facebook page.
I have already started packing and throwing things out and giving things away that have been stored for so long in the back room. We won't have near the storage we have now.
There are also 5 days left for the yarn and fabric sale! 20% off regularly priced yarn , so get it while it's hot! (no pun intended).
I finished my socks I was working on for the fair! I had been knitting so much my hands are cramped and my left hand is in a brace....that slowed me down a bit, but I got the job done....and ready for a break from knitting. Let's see if I can NOT knit for awhile! hmmmm
Blocking the rest of my fair projects today and doing some housework and the dog is at the groomers. I am just trying to stay cool!
Enjoy your week!
SusieKnits
Monday, June 13, 2011
I love being a yarn shop owner. It makes it doubly nice when you are co-mingling with a quilt shop owner as well! I hope I don't sound like a broken record, IM sure I have said it before, but I have been blessed with this opportunity to make my dream a reality and I hope I am not flubbing it up to much. I love the people I meet and of course, I love to knit and play with yarn! It helps when you love what you do and try to make a living at the same time. It has actually only been about 3 years since I bought my first cabinate full of woolease yarn! Learning as I go, I do get helpful tips from other yarn shop owners and of course I listen to my customers, about things I should keep in the shop and kinds of yarn, ect. I have wonderful yarn reps that offer me all kinds of helpful tips and suggestions as well, so it isn't as scarey as it was at first. I have gained confidence and my always encouraging friends and family and my God have encouraged me that I am on the right path. It's never easy picking out yarns for the shop, you just can't guess what people are going to want to take home!
And then, there is the business side of it all:
Unfortunately, due to the ever increasing prices of many yarn companies and the increases in shipping , some of the yarns in my shop will have a slight price increase, as of August and September.
For some of the yarns, I have been just eating the cost, but now, I hesitantly decide I must recoop some of that. Some will go up a few cents but others slightly more. If there is a project you had your eye on, perhaps now is a good time to stock up on that yarn before the price goes up?
Thank You for understanding and thank you for your business!
Gearing up for our move to main street! We have been cleaning out our back room area and packing up. They are working on our new building, so I peeked in the window the other day to see how it was going. They painted the floor red!! OMG! Okay, Im sure it will work out okay. At least they are scrapeing off all the old liquer lables from the outside of the building. All that remains are the signs that say Liquerama!
On Manning street, we still get people looking for the photo lady, I wonder how many people will wander into the new shop looking for liquer and find yarn instead? It's almost funny to think about, but kinda scarey.
I'm just excited about the move and what it might do for us as a business. Waiting to move is like a kid waiting for Christmas!
Last Thursday, I declared it hat day, so I spent the entire day crocheting a sock monkey hat...two of them. Now I am working on a cupcake hat, going much slower. Still working on those socks too, and still working on the Comfort baby blanket and oh yes, I started a shawl using sock yarn. Not sure why...oh wait! BECAUSE I CAN!
Tuesday, Trish will be gone and a new yarn rep will be visiting me....(he hasn't called so I hope it's still on).
Just trying to stay busy so I don't think about Christmas....I mean moving...
later!
Suz
And then, there is the business side of it all:
Unfortunately, due to the ever increasing prices of many yarn companies and the increases in shipping , some of the yarns in my shop will have a slight price increase, as of August and September.
For some of the yarns, I have been just eating the cost, but now, I hesitantly decide I must recoop some of that. Some will go up a few cents but others slightly more. If there is a project you had your eye on, perhaps now is a good time to stock up on that yarn before the price goes up?
Thank You for understanding and thank you for your business!
Gearing up for our move to main street! We have been cleaning out our back room area and packing up. They are working on our new building, so I peeked in the window the other day to see how it was going. They painted the floor red!! OMG! Okay, Im sure it will work out okay. At least they are scrapeing off all the old liquer lables from the outside of the building. All that remains are the signs that say Liquerama!
On Manning street, we still get people looking for the photo lady, I wonder how many people will wander into the new shop looking for liquer and find yarn instead? It's almost funny to think about, but kinda scarey.
I'm just excited about the move and what it might do for us as a business. Waiting to move is like a kid waiting for Christmas!
Last Thursday, I declared it hat day, so I spent the entire day crocheting a sock monkey hat...two of them. Now I am working on a cupcake hat, going much slower. Still working on those socks too, and still working on the Comfort baby blanket and oh yes, I started a shawl using sock yarn. Not sure why...oh wait! BECAUSE I CAN!
Tuesday, Trish will be gone and a new yarn rep will be visiting me....(he hasn't called so I hope it's still on).
Just trying to stay busy so I don't think about Christmas....I mean moving...
later!
Suz
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
I'm back!! It's been awhile, so I guess it's time to blog something.
The most exciting news is that we will be moving to main street !! After we close the store June 18, we will be closed for 2 weeks while we pack and move things over and will be back open for business Tuesday August 2, at 601 N. Main in Winfield. If anyone has a yarn emergency, stop by if we are there and we will let you in ....we might have to dig in boxes to find it...but when you need something you just need something!!
More on the move later....
We also have some new things in store for the fall, like new hours, and classes and stitch groups...so stay tuned!
The South Central Kansas Yarn Shop Hop had it's meeting in May. New shops have been added to Hop, along with new ways to win prizes! Shelly at Twist in Wichita will have the web page up soon so you can check it out and start making your plans. More on this later!
Take note of this....this is big!
Yarn vs Quilting
Last year at the Cowley County Fair, it has been reported that knitting entries were up , and about even with the number of quilted items displayed SO, this year, I called a challenge that the yarnies could beat the number of knit and crochet entries over the number of quilted entries.
Quilt Guild announced at their Guild meeting that the CHALLENGE WAS ON!
So get your needles humming (or clicking), and enter as many projects as you can in each catagory! A list of the new catagories will be on the Cowley County Fair web site soon, or visit us at the shop for a list. The catagories for the knit and crochet has been expanded, so check it out as soon as possible! Show your support for the love of yarn (or fabric), and plan your entries now!
Some of the new catagories in yarn are: for knit and crochet...felted items, (hat, bag), knit or crochet clotheing, socks, baby items, dishcloths, and more.
If the problem is getting your entries to the fair, ask me real nice and I might help you out with that!
Once again, this summer I will offer free learn to knit with purchase of supplies! So if you know someone who wants to learn, send them my way please!
What Ive been knitting:
I don't feel like I have been accomplishing much ...I seem to be ripping out more than I'm getting anything done. I did felt a bubble bag, but Im still working on socks, so far, the one I am knitting is from the top down and I am on the foot part, almost to the toe. I started a summer pullover, which I have ripped out a couple of times and started over with a new pattern. Then, I started a vest that was published in the new Cast On magazine knit from the recycled sari silk...it's going really fast! I am still working on a square for the square of the month, but I put it on a holder and lent out the the needles to a customer that needed that size and I was out of them......I aim to please!!
And don't forget June 11 is World Wide Knit In Public Day! Where ever you be...don't forget to take your knitting and show your support for the love of yarn!
I feel like a lot is going on and my brain is full...almost overwhelmed....but I am hanging in there and the my yarn shop is my refuge, and God Bless the yarnies that come to visit! Thank YOU!!
The most exciting news is that we will be moving to main street !! After we close the store June 18, we will be closed for 2 weeks while we pack and move things over and will be back open for business Tuesday August 2, at 601 N. Main in Winfield. If anyone has a yarn emergency, stop by if we are there and we will let you in ....we might have to dig in boxes to find it...but when you need something you just need something!!
More on the move later....
We also have some new things in store for the fall, like new hours, and classes and stitch groups...so stay tuned!
The South Central Kansas Yarn Shop Hop had it's meeting in May. New shops have been added to Hop, along with new ways to win prizes! Shelly at Twist in Wichita will have the web page up soon so you can check it out and start making your plans. More on this later!
Take note of this....this is big!
Yarn vs Quilting
Last year at the Cowley County Fair, it has been reported that knitting entries were up , and about even with the number of quilted items displayed SO, this year, I called a challenge that the yarnies could beat the number of knit and crochet entries over the number of quilted entries.
Quilt Guild announced at their Guild meeting that the CHALLENGE WAS ON!
So get your needles humming (or clicking), and enter as many projects as you can in each catagory! A list of the new catagories will be on the Cowley County Fair web site soon, or visit us at the shop for a list. The catagories for the knit and crochet has been expanded, so check it out as soon as possible! Show your support for the love of yarn (or fabric), and plan your entries now!
Some of the new catagories in yarn are: for knit and crochet...felted items, (hat, bag), knit or crochet clotheing, socks, baby items, dishcloths, and more.
If the problem is getting your entries to the fair, ask me real nice and I might help you out with that!
Once again, this summer I will offer free learn to knit with purchase of supplies! So if you know someone who wants to learn, send them my way please!
What Ive been knitting:
I don't feel like I have been accomplishing much ...I seem to be ripping out more than I'm getting anything done. I did felt a bubble bag, but Im still working on socks, so far, the one I am knitting is from the top down and I am on the foot part, almost to the toe. I started a summer pullover, which I have ripped out a couple of times and started over with a new pattern. Then, I started a vest that was published in the new Cast On magazine knit from the recycled sari silk...it's going really fast! I am still working on a square for the square of the month, but I put it on a holder and lent out the the needles to a customer that needed that size and I was out of them......I aim to please!!
And don't forget June 11 is World Wide Knit In Public Day! Where ever you be...don't forget to take your knitting and show your support for the love of yarn!
I feel like a lot is going on and my brain is full...almost overwhelmed....but I am hanging in there and the my yarn shop is my refuge, and God Bless the yarnies that come to visit! Thank YOU!!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
My mother passed away on March 21st, as did my husbands mother. His mother in the early morning hours and mine later that evening. Hospice was attending my mother-in-law, but my mother's was somewhat unexpected. She was sicker than anyone had known and knowing her, she just kept it from me. I feel like I should have read the signs...but I didn't. Now, I believe, she died the way she needed to. She didn't have to leave her home, as we were starting to look for assisted care for her. She went very quickly and peacefully, and that is very comforting to me. I will miss her deeply!
I didn't get any of mom's talents. She was a very talented writer and she taught me to quilt and knit and crochet. But most importantly, she taught me how to live and die. She was a very strong woman, though she would never admit to that. She just did what she had to do to get by and survive life.
While looking through some of her papers last night, I found one of her writings, I thought very appropriate for right now.
I didn't get any of mom's talents. She was a very talented writer and she taught me to quilt and knit and crochet. But most importantly, she taught me how to live and die. She was a very strong woman, though she would never admit to that. She just did what she had to do to get by and survive life.
While looking through some of her papers last night, I found one of her writings, I thought very appropriate for right now.
Out of the Forest
With the yesterdays winding behind me in an ever lengthening trail I reflect upon them not with sorrow that they are behind me, nor with the yearning to view again those that are so far beyond yesterday that I remember only snatches of the scenery.
To go back and view again the most choice bits of wayside and then to travel on would lead me again through the forest of sorrow and despair. No, I would not care to find myself there again.
There were voices there..the voices of Everyone , but in the depths of that jungle, I was alone, as were they. No sunlight pierced that dark place to allow one to find another or lead each other out. As we all travel seperate trails, yet the paths all converge in that forest. Some never find their way out and remain there still, forever lost and entangled in that gloom. Those of us who found our way out had seen a gleam of light, piercing through the muddled confusion of thickest darkness and we thrashed toward that elusive light.
Some of the voices in that dark wilderness were not as frantic sounding as others.
Some had found a path comparatively free of briars and thorns; where the underbrush was not quite as thick and the darkness more grey than black. But they are the ones I worry about. They were not so afraid; their path was smoother and some didn't mind it there at all.
Some stayed by choice. Their twilight grey did not allow enough contrast for them to be able to perceive the gleam of light that led me out. Oh, I'm not sorry I made the trip, not at all! It had to be. It's the only way to arrive at the lovely place where I am now. The yesterdays are neither remembered or forgotten with any great emotion.
It is the road ahead of me, my tomorrows, that I'm excited about. The view is indescribably beautiful and here come all the others who have emerged from the forest to take my hand and we continue our journey together. We can see forever all the tomorrows are in plain view. That beautiful, illuminating brilliance is everywhere now and we are out of the forest. Only once must we pass through that place.
There is no need to ever go back and pass through it again. As more emerge from that inevitable, despicable forest we join hands and travel on together. The highway is wide and beautiful and takes us to tomorrow and forever, toward a light that grows brighter and lovelier as each days journey takes us closer to eternity.
Annette J. Franklin Reynolds
I know she is in the light and now living her eternity! I love you mom!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
As promised!
Circle Vest I knit from Mille Color
Next up ...
Hacienda Chuncky Cable Vest
Display of new Taiyo from Noro
Note the entrelac scarf knit from Kureyon #188
Taiyo Display. I crocheted the Queen Ann's Lace from Taiyo to show off all the pretty colors contained in one skien of yarn! Yes, I crocheted something!
Im including the free pattern for the scarf with purchase of yarn!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
I want to go to work today!
Ive been sick since Wednesday and Im hateing it that I still feel terrible. I love Saturdays at the shop because it is the day the shop is bustleing with people! Knit Group and today is a Quilt Class.
I new yarn come in and it's still sitting in boxes. Im afraid if I go in, I will infect someone with what ever it is I have. Even though I may or may not be contageous, I can't take chances with my partner as she has COPD. A cold is devistating for her!
I have finished some projects, which I need to get pictures posted. I either havn't had the time or now.....sick! ICK!!
Ive gotten in some wonderful things last week too! Kollage Yarns and Square Needles! IM super excited about that! Ive been using my square needles on my new project, Napolean that Im knitting with Weekend Yarn. I have trouble with my tension when I work in stockinette stitch, I am hopeing this will help! Also from Kollage I recieved Hot Cotton yarn and get this .....Riveting, yarn made from recycled blue jeans!!!!!!
I also have a new account with Noro! The first shipment came in containing Kureyon and Taiyo. Taiyo is new this season and is a cotton yarn....It is fabulous! Ive already have a sample I crocheted a scarf in Queen Ann's Lace that really shows off the color blends!
I promise, Ill get pictures up soon!
In the meantime, check us out on facebook as mulberry creek and our website at http://www.mulberrycreek.net/.
We are also on twitter, but i don't fully understand that one yet!
Ive been sick since Wednesday and Im hateing it that I still feel terrible. I love Saturdays at the shop because it is the day the shop is bustleing with people! Knit Group and today is a Quilt Class.
I new yarn come in and it's still sitting in boxes. Im afraid if I go in, I will infect someone with what ever it is I have. Even though I may or may not be contageous, I can't take chances with my partner as she has COPD. A cold is devistating for her!
I have finished some projects, which I need to get pictures posted. I either havn't had the time or now.....sick! ICK!!
Ive gotten in some wonderful things last week too! Kollage Yarns and Square Needles! IM super excited about that! Ive been using my square needles on my new project, Napolean that Im knitting with Weekend Yarn. I have trouble with my tension when I work in stockinette stitch, I am hopeing this will help! Also from Kollage I recieved Hot Cotton yarn and get this .....Riveting, yarn made from recycled blue jeans!!!!!!
I also have a new account with Noro! The first shipment came in containing Kureyon and Taiyo. Taiyo is new this season and is a cotton yarn....It is fabulous! Ive already have a sample I crocheted a scarf in Queen Ann's Lace that really shows off the color blends!
I promise, Ill get pictures up soon!
In the meantime, check us out on facebook as mulberry creek and our website at http://www.mulberrycreek.net/.
We are also on twitter, but i don't fully understand that one yet!
Monday, January 31, 2011
Tat Class and Other Ramblings
After 2-3 days of spring like weather winter is back again and starting to attack! It's 24 degrees and threatening to get colder with snow and ice.... Ill take the snow...hate the ice!
I decided to blog tonight to report on my Tatting Class that began last Monday. (Cancelled tonight because of impending weather).
I wasn't going to take the class, but my partner was detained in the city and wasn't going to make it back, so she called me and I had to go unlock to let the teacher in. I was there, so I went ahead and took the class.
There was about 6 in the class but the teacher had her hands full! I started over, I don't know how many times...I just wasn't getting it! Durring working hours, I practiced on Tuesday and I practiced Wednesday and Thursday and Friday. This is what my tatting looked like at that point:
I decided to blog tonight to report on my Tatting Class that began last Monday. (Cancelled tonight because of impending weather).
I wasn't going to take the class, but my partner was detained in the city and wasn't going to make it back, so she called me and I had to go unlock to let the teacher in. I was there, so I went ahead and took the class.
There was about 6 in the class but the teacher had her hands full! I started over, I don't know how many times...I just wasn't getting it! Durring working hours, I practiced on Tuesday and I practiced Wednesday and Thursday and Friday. This is what my tatting looked like at that point:
Tatting Practice
Looks like I have another week to practice my tat stitches!
Back to my knitting...I learned Entralac today! When it gets a little longer, I will post a picture of it...
It is kind of addicting, as I just want to keep going to see what colors pop up where. I am useing Noro Kureyon. And that reminds me.........
Im so excited about the new yarn comeing in! My new yarn rep from Colorado, Cherrie Krandel, showed me lots of Noro and Katia yarns, which are being processed now and hope to have them in the shop very soon! Cherrie was very helpful and offered suggestions along the way....she's awesome! (As are all of my reps!!)
I also started a crochet project yesterday...weird, huh? But I found a pattern for a Queen Ann's Lace scarf with Noro Taiyo and had to whip that up for a model for the yarn that is going to be in the store! I love the way the colors work out and it's most beautiful! Working with it is like crochet cotton only lots bigger, super cool!
Okies, time to crawl back under my blankie on the couch and get warm!
Happy Knittin'!!
Susie
Monday, January 24, 2011
Okay, one of my New Years Resolutions was to blog more often. With that one going to Hades in a handbasket, another one is to finish projects already started. Trouble is, when I finish one, I then start another one...
Right now, on the needles: Toe Up socks, knit with Lang's Jawoll Magic in Brown colorway for my hubby.
Toe up sock from same yarn in an orange colorway.
Hot pink hat
Tank Top knit in 24K from Plymouth Yarn
Circular Vest knit in Lang's Mille ColorI
Tote Bag knit from fabric strips
Mitered Squares Baby Blanket in Jeanne DK
So far this year I have finished:
A Barbie dress and knitting bag (for Barbie of course)
Toe Up Socks on DPN, in Comfort Worsted
Hat in Mushishi (scarf goes with that , but havn't cast on for it yet)
Loopy Scarf in Refasion Yarn
And to top it all off, I went to a Tatting Class tonight! Im not sure IM going to get the hang of this one...at least I haven't wrapped my brain around it yet.
Spent the first half of my day going to the Dr to get my lab results. Seems my cholesterol is up. Dr says start moveing! I guess I need to figure out how to walk and knit at the same time? Then it was off to the eye Dr to get my yearly exam. Slight change....seems when you turn 55 you go down hill from there!
Yes, I had a birthday this month....can't say I was happy with this one. Twice today I heard, "you need to do this when you are 55".....pretty sure that's a senier citizen in some establishments as well. Im also thinking about makeing a Bucket List.....it's official, Im old!
Okay, none of that has to do with anything. I do have some great plans for the yarn shop...I have a new account prospect and the Rep is comeing this week to show me her lovely yarns. I already have a wish list with a small budget, so I will at least meet my minimum with some great new fun yarns for spring!
Sandi will be teaching a Tunisian Crochet class sometime this spring, which we haven't done before.
I also have a lady who will teach Spinning with a drop spindle and much more in works!
Happy Knitting!
Susan
Right now, on the needles: Toe Up socks, knit with Lang's Jawoll Magic in Brown colorway for my hubby.
Toe up sock from same yarn in an orange colorway.
Hot pink hat
Tank Top knit in 24K from Plymouth Yarn
Circular Vest knit in Lang's Mille ColorI
Tote Bag knit from fabric strips
Mitered Squares Baby Blanket in Jeanne DK
So far this year I have finished:
A Barbie dress and knitting bag (for Barbie of course)
Toe Up Socks on DPN, in Comfort Worsted
Hat in Mushishi (scarf goes with that , but havn't cast on for it yet)
Loopy Scarf in Refasion Yarn
And to top it all off, I went to a Tatting Class tonight! Im not sure IM going to get the hang of this one...at least I haven't wrapped my brain around it yet.
Spent the first half of my day going to the Dr to get my lab results. Seems my cholesterol is up. Dr says start moveing! I guess I need to figure out how to walk and knit at the same time? Then it was off to the eye Dr to get my yearly exam. Slight change....seems when you turn 55 you go down hill from there!
Yes, I had a birthday this month....can't say I was happy with this one. Twice today I heard, "you need to do this when you are 55".....pretty sure that's a senier citizen in some establishments as well. Im also thinking about makeing a Bucket List.....it's official, Im old!
Okay, none of that has to do with anything. I do have some great plans for the yarn shop...I have a new account prospect and the Rep is comeing this week to show me her lovely yarns. I already have a wish list with a small budget, so I will at least meet my minimum with some great new fun yarns for spring!
Sandi will be teaching a Tunisian Crochet class sometime this spring, which we haven't done before.
I also have a lady who will teach Spinning with a drop spindle and much more in works!
Happy Knitting!
Susan
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